Sussex wine to apply for protected status

Sussex wine producers are planning to apply for Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status across the EU meaning that any wine labeled ‘Sussex’ would have to be made in the area and adhere to certain standards.

Jamie Everett, the chief operating officer of Rathfinny wine estate which is leading the campaign, said: “We hope that in time people in a bar in China or Hong Kong will ask the bartender for a glass of Sussex.”

The proposed geographical indication will apply to both still and sparkling wine. However, if the application is successful Sussex sparkling wine would have to change to have a higher minimum alcohol content and longer lees aging – 15 months in the bottle, like Champagne.